Full marks for local farm trader

McCreath Simpson & Prentice (MSP) is demonstrating its commitment to providing expert advice to farmers as another member of staff has completed first stage exams.

John Stafford (43), from Newcastle, based at the Berwick company has passed his FACTS examination, and is now fully qualified to give fertiliser advice to customers in his role as Farm Trader.

MSP is involved in cereal and grass seed, fertiliser and grain merchanting across Scotland and the north of England. Their aim is to train key staff so they can support growers from seed through all its growing stages.

Richard Simpson, vice-chair of Simpsons Malt Ltd, said: “Presenting well-qualified, knowledgeable staff who can advise growers correctly is one of McCreath Simpson & Prentice’s key objectives. Our clients have come to expect a certain level of expertise when purchasing seeds, fertiliser or weed and pest control products - they want recommendations on the best products to use and this can only come from qualified individuals who have both knowledge and experience.”

Speaking about his training, John said: “I have been at MSP for six years and I am constantly encouraged to improve my knowledge through training schemes. Passing my FACTS exam is the latest level of my training and I look forward to getting started on the BASIS training and exams.”